Broos announces AFCON prelim squad

Monday Nov 24, 2025. 15:49

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has released his 54-man preliminary squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The continental showpiece will take place from 21 December to 28 January in Morocco, where South Africa will attempt to return to the podium for a second straight tournament.

Bafana Bafana claimed bronze at the 2023 AFCON and Broos has made it a priority for the nation to return to the semi-finals, at the very least.

The former Belgian international was allowed to name up to 55 players for South Africa’s preliminary squad before cutting it to the final 23 who will travel to Morocco.

Midfield maestro and respected leader Themba Zwane has been named in Borros’ squad, despite not having played September due to injury. However, the Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana veteran is close to his return and will bring experience and leadership to the group.

20-year-old shandre Campbell, who plays for Club Brugge in Belgium, has been named in a Bafana Bafana squad for the first time, joining fellow youngsters Relebohile Mofokeng, Moha Nkota, Malibongwe Khoza and Mduduzi Shabalala.

U-20 AFCON Player of the Tournament Tylon Smith has also been shortlisted for the senior international team for the first time.

Masindi Nemtajela and Keletso Makgalwa were both included in the Bafana Bafana squad for the first time in the recent international friendly against Zambia and find themselves on the AFCON shortlist.

MLS side Minnesota United’s Bongokuhle Hlongwane made the preliminary squad again, after being named but not making the final 23 in South Africa’s last round of FIFA World Cup qualifiers in October.

Mamelodi Sundowns’ Jayden Adams misses out after a recent lack of game time, but Broos has chosen Fawaaz Basadien who has also struggled for playing time with the league champions.

The final 23-man squad for the continental showpiece is expected to be announced in early December.

Bafana Bafana AFCON prelim squad: